Volusia County, FL - Volusia County's Junior Lifeguard Program is getting ready to kickoff the summer with a series of camps.
New juniors must pass tryouts before registering.Tryouts will be held every Saturday from May 7 to May 28 throughout the county. Returning juniors don't have to take the physical test. According to Captain Tammy Marris of Volusia County Beach Safety Ocean Rescue, the Jr. Lifeguard program "is not a learn to swim program. You have to know how to swim." To be eligible you have to be between 9 and 15, and you must be able to swim 100 yards in 2 minutes and 15 seconds, tread water for 5 minutes, and swim underwater for 10 feet.
Jr. camps start on June 13 and run all the way through July 22. The camps are held at Andy Romano Beachfront Park, Frank Rendon Park, and at 207 Buenos Aires Ave in New Smyrna Beach. The camps "introduce youth to ocean swimming, life-saving techniques, and the beach ecology," according to Marris. "The program promotes teamwork, discipline, commitment, sportsmanship, and respect for the environment and other team members." Jr. Camps cost $150 for the first session and $125 for an additional session.
Advanced camp is available to applicants who have completed 3 Jr. camps, and is for kids interested in learning advanced skills in stand-up paddle board and surf instruction. Professional training in CPR and first aid is provided. Advanced camp costs $200.
Kids who have passed a Jr. Lifeguard tryout and attended three camps can apply to become Beach Scouts. Beach Scouts serve as assistant instructors.
For more information and to register go to Volusia.org/beach.
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